Explore Singapore's great outdoors: Work up a sweat this school holidays
Many of us lament that there’s not much we can do back home in terms of outdoor activities. No doubt Singapore can’t compare to the likes of the Australian outback and the National Parks in countries like the US. But there’s actually a wide diversity of flora and fauna in our garden city if we would just give it a chance.
Did you know that Singapore has 350 parks and 4 nature reserves? And that our entire island is well-connected by an interlinked network called the Park Connector Network (PCN)? There are plenty of designated green spaces where we can indulge in our favourite outdoor activities. Be it water sports, running, hiking, cycling or simply walking, find out where you can go to reap the therapeutic benefits of nature on the National Parks website. But before you head out, check out the safe distancing site for traffic at these locations.
Get far from the madding crowds in the malls. With the COVID-19 situation peaking, there’s no better time to get out there and explore Singapore’s great outdoors. Here’s a list of our favourite outdoor activities you can engage in, as well as accompanying gear and accessories to work out safely and head out in style. And don't forget the sunscreen!
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Outdoor Adventures Stand-Up Paddling at Sentosa, S$100
Kayaking with Certification, from S$60
Scuba Diving At Pulau Hantu, from S$130
Wear a long-sleeve UV top to counteract the long hours under the sun
MULAWEAR Reverse Tie-Up Long Sleeves, S$49
Run like the wind
Since the start of the pandemic, more have embraced running and discovered the joys of pounding the streets. Not only is running a good form of cardio exercise, the weight-bearing workout also builds bone density. Are your sports shoes worse for wear now? Check out our Yahoo TV video above to find out how you can prolong the shelf life of your favourite kicks.
Skechers Men Sport Casual Stamina Airy Shoes, S$90 (was S$129)
For walks.
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2, Men's, S$299
For runs.
Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7, Women's, S$179 (was S$219)
For runs.
Ladies, never run without a good sports bra!
Alo Yoga Airlift Take Charge bra, S$92
Lululemon AirSupport Bra, High Support, C–DDD Cups, US$98
Let’s hike and do some forest-bathing
It took a pandemic and travel restrictions for locals to explore our own backyards. In fact, many have been pleasantly surprised at the diversity of nature that Singapore has to offer, in terms of flora and fauna, PCNs and even off-the-beaten-track trails that are so worth exploring. Who knows, you may be the next to discover wild boars and monkeys commonly seen during hikes in Singapore.
[Read] Wildlife sightings in Singapore
Word of caution: During wild animal sightings, always stay calm and move as quietly and as slowly as possible. It is best to avoid the path of the wild animals. Animals have an in-built self-defence mechanism and do not attack unless antagonised. Always remember that we are in their habitat and not the other way around.
All you need now to get started is a pair of sturdy and hardworking hiking boots and some rainproof equipment.
Timberland X Raeburn GS Edge 6 inch boots, S$333.99
Get 25% off EVERYTHING with code "LANTERN"
Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot, S$137.25
Assorted colours.
Outdoor 40L Mountaineering Backpack, Waterproof, S$39.00 (was S$77.99)
If you love cycling
There's nothing like having the wind blow in your face and vitamin D shining on you to rejuvenate and recharge. But sore butts are a real pain in the ass, literally. Here's a pro-tip: Many cycling pros swear by the chamois cream. Apply to butt before your rides. Try it for yourself!
Is the glaring sun preventing you from having a safe ride? Get polarized sports sunglasses you can wear everywhere.
Polarized Sports Sunglasses, Unisex, S$235.85
Men's Bicycle Pants, Coolmax, padded, S$42.50
More bicycle shorts from Amazon
Lorna Jane Gloss Bike Short, S$40 (was S$89.99)
More bike shorts at Lorna Jane
MULAWEAR Flex Leggings Short Pants, S$72
Stay safe from dengue. Read this article and learn how you can proactively prep yourself before heading outdoors.